Young Women Explore Scientific Careers at AImaginar Mujeres en STEM
Last Tuesday, January 14, the Millennium Institute iHEALTH held the first edition of “AImaginar Mujeres en STEM”, a one-day event that brought together high school students at the San Joaquín Campus of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. The main goal of the activity was to inspire young women to develop an interest in STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), encouraging careers in fields historically overrepresented by men.
During the event, attendees participated in hands-on workshops, lab visits, and talks designed to showcase how technology, artificial intelligence, and medical imaging can transform healthcare. The activities were led by female researchers and students from iHEALTH, who shared their experiences and expertise in areas such as physiological sensors, magnetic resonance imaging, artificial intelligence models, and their applications in medical imaging.
The day began with opening remarks by Dr. Claudia Prieto, director of iHEALTH, who highlighted the importance of fostering female participation in STEM: “We want to show them that these fields are fascinating, that there is room for them, and that through science and technology, they can contribute to solving real-world problems that positively impact society.”
Afterward, participants had the opportunity to explore the workings of physiological sensors and electromyography through a practical workshop that included an interactive game. They also took part in an introductory workshop on artificial intelligence applied to medical imaging, working with real-world examples and data-driven models.
In addition, they visited the Quantitative Physiology Laboratory, led by Dr. María Rodríguez, and the Magnetic Resonance Laboratory, home to the equipment used by iHEALTH researchers to conduct cutting-edge investigations in the field.
The event not only sparked interest in STEM but also promoted interaction between attendees and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields. To conclude the day, participants were recognized for their engagement, reinforcing iHEALTH's commitment to fostering inclusive and educational opportunities that bring scientific disciplines closer to future generations.
This first edition of AImaginar Mujeres en STEM marked a milestone in the effort to build a future with greater gender equity in science and technology, planting the seeds of change in the young women who will become the scientific leaders of tomorrow.
